Limitations of simulation

A simulation operates according to the GIGO principle (garbage in / garbage out). The more accurate the input data, the more accurate are also the results. The definition of disturbances (e.g. loss of machines or personnel) and strongly fluctuating parameters of a module (e.g. destinations of private vehicles in road traffic) is problematic. A static examination of the influence of such variables becomes impossible. Simulation is able to deliver a result interval when recording the minimal and maximal value (see figure 1).

Figure 1: Minimal/maximal examination

However, despite these restrictions simulation often endows a great, verifiable benefit.